Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a fourth-minute goal against Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico, to put the Samurai Blue ahead in their second match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 21, 2026.
The veteran midfielder converted a cross from teammate Keito Nakamura to beat Tunisian goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen.
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Kamada's early strike follows his crucial late equalizer that secured a point against the Netherlands in the opening match.
According to USA Today, the 29-year-old Crystal Palace player is one of the most experienced figures on the squad for manager Hajime Moriyasu.
Kamada has made 50 appearances for the Japanese national team since his debut in 2019, recording 13 goals throughout his international career.
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The midfielder brings extensive club experience to the national setup, having played professionally across top leagues in Japan, Belgium, Germany, Italy, and England.
His international tenure includes back-to-back trophy victories with Crystal Palace, where he won the FA Cup in 2025 and the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2026.
Kamada previously published a biography titled Unwavering Belief, a book documenting his football journey through the perspectives of 12 coaches, mentors, family members, and teammates.
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The early offensive production positions the Samurai Blue toward securing a spot in the tournament knockout stage, an achievement Japan has reached in its last two World Cup appearances.
